UPS trucks are a common sight in Fresno-area neighborhoods as the holiday shipping season reaches its peak. But don't be surprised if you see UPS using a slower, lower-tech (and quieter) vehicle to deliver packages - a bicycle.

UPS has geared up for the holidays by adding bicycles (and small bike trailers) to its delivery team.

"UPS has about a dozen or so bicycles in some suburban residential areas of Fresno," said Susan Rosenberg, UPS public relations director. The program has been going on for at least five years.

Bicycles are used in many places including Ventura, Santa Barbara, Portland, areas of Arizona, Texas and Florida. In Florida, UPS also uses golf carts.

"Using bikes and golf carts is a creative solution to use with our seasonal workforce of delivery helpers in an efficient manner to deal with increased residential delivery that has grown from online commerce," Rosenberg said. "Decisions to use (bicycles) can be influenced by the terrain of a delivery area."

UPS has used delivery helpers for decades to augment its normal force for the holidays.

"Some ride with drivers, while others meet drivers on route and are stationed primarily in residential areas," Rosenberg said. Some cyclists are placed in their own neighborhoods because they know the area better.

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